An ecosystem is an interconnected system where every device works together in harmony. And devices can be added, or taken away, without a disruption of service. Today, achieving a fully optimized and automated system that is truly a smart home ecosystem is no small task.
Below we outline how you can be the master of your smart home ecosystem.
Creating Your Smart Home Ecosystem
How many “devices” do you currently have in your home? Think about your smart phone, iPad, video camera. The average household now has more than seven active devices in use each day. You may have a high-tech home, but chances are you have a lot of connected devices, and not a smart home ecosystem where all your devices work together seamlessly.
A connected device that cannot participate as part of the smart home ecosystem isn’t smart; it’s simply linked to the Internet. For example, you might have a video camera through one source, and doorbell camera from another source, with no way to control these devices together nor the ability to have them work together. To create your smart home ecosystem, you must connect all smart home technology, such as smart lights, smart thermostats and smart locks, through a single app or to a single hub. Your app or hub is the central location where all aspects of your smart home can be controlled.
When your smart home devices are integrated, they can work together. There’s no need to open an app to arm your home security, then check that all doors are locked and turn out the lights manually all through disparate apps. You can command your smart home ecosystem to go to bed, and instantly prepare your home to protect you while you sleep.
Protecting Your Smart Home Ecosystem
With new advancements in smart home products constantly emerging, it is difficult to incorporate new buys into your smart home ecosystem. Home automation and security equipment is becoming increasingly popular, so standalone technology is available at your everyday retailers. However, this standalone technology can disrupt your smart home ecosystem. Buying individual pieces from various vendors can cause connectivity issues, as well as warrant security concerns. You should also measure security concern risks with devices that aren’t vetted for your ecosystem, opening your potential for hacking.
Work with a provider that offers multiple smart home devices that can connect to your smart home ecosystem. Your provider can install the smart home and home security equipment that best suits your lifestyle, and be your consultant the next time you see new technology you want to introduce to the system. With the wide array of retailers offering similar solutions, a provider can help you find one that works in concert with your existing smart home ecosystem.
